It’s time for a change at LA Galaxy as head coach Sigi Schmid announced on Monday that he is stepping down from his position. With this move, Schmid puts an end to what has been a disappointing second stint with the team that only lasted 13 months. The 65-year-old already coached Galaxy on one previous occasion, from 1999 to 2004.
“I have coached at various levels of soccer in the United States for over 35 years, where I have dedicated myself to furthering the sport in our country,” – said Schmid of his decision. “After careful consideration, I have decided to step away from coaching at this time, but would like to remain in the game.“
Sigi Schmid leaves LA Galaxy in a tight position. Galaxy is currently on the eighth spot in the Western Conference, two places short from the playoff position. In the remaining six matches of the season, Galaxy will be coached by Schmid’s assistant coach Dominic Kinnear on an interim basis.
“We want to thank Sigi for everything he’s done for the LA Galaxy and for soccer in Southern California,” – said Galaxy president Chris Klein. “He has played such an integral part of the success of the LA Galaxy since 1996, including helping bring this club the first of five MLS Cup trophies. We respect Sigi’s decision and we will continue to focus on our push for playoffs as we move forward. Dom is one of the finest coaches in the history of this league, and we trust him to lead this group for the remainder of the season. His keen understanding of our team and MLS will serve us well for the last six games of the season. The club will conduct its search for the next LA Galaxy head coach immediately.“
After starting his coaching career with the UCLA and United States U20 team, Sigi Schmid joined LA Galaxy in 1999, winning four trophies during his five years with the team. He went on to coach Columbus Crew and Seattle Sounders FC before returning to LA in July 2017.
Schmid’s first year back was marked with the embarrassing season in which the Galaxy finished last in the overall standings. In the offseason, the team acquired several players including superstar striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but Galaxy continued to play mediocre soccer, and Schmid’s exit might be for the best at the end of the day.
